The reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone National Park is one of conservation’s greatest success stories. It began back in 1995 when the first of 41 wild wolves from Canada and northwest Montana were released into the park where they have since grown in population, broken into distinct packs and dispersed to surrounding areas.
As of 2025, one of Yellowstone’s largest packs is the Rescue Creek Pack. This pack is unique in that almost all of its members are black (Yellowstone’s overall wolf population is 50% black and 50% gray). The Rescue Creek Pack is one of the more visible packs in northern Yellowstone and can often be spotted in the Lamar Valley, an area popular for visitors hoping to observe wolves.
The following footage was taken yesterday in Yellowstone’s northern range. It shows wolves from the Rescue Creek Pack in hot pursuit of a bison herd.
Wolf predation on bison has increased in recent years as elk populations have declined and bison numbers have grown but it is still a relatively rare event as bison are formidable prey and wolves risk serious injury or death attempting to take down North America’s largest land mammal.
Yellowstone National Park is one of the premier places in the world to see wild wolves and the Lamar Valley is consider as the best spot to see wolves as it is home to several wolf packs and its wide open landscapes make it spot them. If you plan on wolf watching at Yellowstone National Park, remember to do so respectfully and remain at least 100 yards away from the wolves at all times. Learn more about wolf safety at Yellowstone National Park below.
Yellowstone Wolf Safety Guidelines:
Wolves are not normally a danger to people, unless they become habituated to their presence and food (there has never been an attack in Yellowstone). Two habituated wolves have been killed in the park. Help us protect wolves in Yellowstone by:
- Remaining at least 100 yards away when watching or photographing them.
- Telling a ranger if you see wolves near developed areas or approaching people.
- Keeping your dog leashed at all times when it’s outside a vehicle.
If you’re concerned about a wolf because it’s too close or not showing any fear of people, stand tall and hold your ground. If the wolf approaches you, wave your arms, yell, and flare your jacket. If that doesn’t discourage it, throw something at it or use bear spray. Group up with other people, continue waving and yelling, and tell a ranger as soon as possible.
